New 2.8 FSI with Audi valvelift system

Audi is forging ahead with the expansion of its range of engines. Towards the end of the year, a new 2.8-litre petrol engine will be appearing in the A6; it develops 154 kW (210 bhp) and 280 Nm of torque, available constantly from 3,000 to 5,000 rpm. As well as FSI petrol direct injection, the V6 thus for the first time features a highly efficient but astonishingly simple valve control technology – the innovative Audi valvelift system. What this means for Audi drivers is even more driving fun, on appreciably less fuel.

The new technology has the purpose of controlling valve lift variably in two stages. Unlike conventional solutions, which involve additional components that have to be engaged or slid into place, it transfers the actuators directly to the camshaft. This brings major advantages as regards the configuration of the valve lift curves. The Audi valvelift system implements so-called cam pieces, which are located on the inlet basic camshafts and can be displaced longitudinally. They carry two cam contours, side by side, for small and large valve travel. In this way, depending on position, the intake valves are opened in accordance with the prevailing load requirements via roller cam followers.

In conjunction with an array of complementary measures that promote reduced friction at numerous components, the Audi valvelift system reduces fuel consumption by around ten percent. The 2.8-litre FSI, which has plenty in reserve in every situation thanks to its ample power and torque figures, will use only
8.7 litres of premium-grade petrol over the MVEG cycle in the Audi A6.

The new 2.8 FSI is a high-tech engine through and through. It also affirms this status through the FSI direct injection developed by Audi, which permits a high compression ratio of 12.0:1 and consequently makes extremely efficient combustion possible. Solutions such as the cast aluminium cylinder casing, weighing only 33 kilograms, and the new demand-responsive oil pump with two pressure stages round off the highly advanced technical package.